The first batch of 262 Nigerians has been evacuated amid xenophobic attacks in South Africa. They arrived safely in Lagos on Thursday morning at about 10:30am aboard a special Air Peace flight. The operation reflects urgent government action to protect citizens abroad. Authorities confirmed that the evacuees were received at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport. Therefore, the exercise marks a swift response to rising concerns linked to xenophobic attacks affecting Nigerian nationals.
The special evacuation flight, operated by Air Peace from O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg, was conducted with the airline’s luxurious Boeing 777 aircraft, bearing with mark 5N-BVE.
Xenophobic attacks: Government response and evacuation update
Officials from the Nigerian Mission in South Africa accompanied the returnees during the evacuation. They were led by Acting High Commissioner Ambassador Temitope Alexander Ajayi. Meanwhile, airport authorities ensured smooth processing upon arrival. The evacuees were immediately directed towards documentation and initial support procedures. In addition, coordination between agencies ensured order and safety throughout the process.
Receiving the group, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye condemned the xenophobic attacks in strong terms. He stated: “The Federal Government of Nigeria will not stand idly by while our citizens are subjected to attacks and harassment, wherever they may be in the world,”. His remarks reinforced Nigeria’s position on protecting its citizens from xenophobic attacks globally. Consequently, the statement signalled a firmer diplomatic stance.
Furthermore, the minister highlighted that the evacuation demonstrates a citizen-centred foreign policy approach. He noted that government remains committed to addressing xenophobic attacks through diplomatic engagement. Therefore, Nigeria continues to engage South African authorities at the highest level. The aim is to ensure accountability while preventing further incidents of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals.
Speaking on behalf of Air Peace, Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Nowel Ngala, described the circumstances that necessitated the evacuation as unfortunate and deeply concerning. He reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to humanitarian service, noting that the operation aligns with the patriotic vision of Air Peace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, CON, whose philosophy has consistently placed national interest, compassion and service above commercial considerations.
Mr. Ngala stated that Air Peace remains ready to support the Federal Government in safeguarding Nigerians wherever they may be and disclosed that discussions were ongoing regarding additional evacuation flights should the need arise. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for their prompt intervention and coordination of the rescue effort, which ensured the safe return of the affected citizens.
The evacuation exercise involved multiple government institutions working together seamlessly. These include the Ministries of Humanitarian Affairs, Aviation, and Health. Additionally, the Nigeria Immigration Service and security agencies played key roles. This coordinated response ensured that the impact of xenophobic attacks was managed efficiently. Meanwhile, officials emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration in emergency operations.
Upon arrival, the returnees underwent documentation, profiling, and medical screening. Authorities also provided temporary accommodation and essential support services. This step ensures proper reintegration after experiencing xenophobic attacks abroad. In addition, families are expected to be reunited once processing is completed. Therefore, the focus remains on recovery and stability for affected individuals.
The Federal Government confirmed that more evacuation flights may follow in the coming days. This depends on the situation of Nigerians still affected by xenophobia in South Africa. Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions continue to secure long-term safety guarantees. Consequently, officials are prioritising both immediate evacuation and long-term protection measures.
Each returnee will receive a hundred thousand naira from the Federal Government and from MTN, free 50,000 airtime.
Recall in 2019, Air Peace evacuated 315 Nigerians inclusive of 290 adults and 25 children from South Africa due to same Xenophobic attacks. In 2022, Air Peace deployed aircraft to evacuate Nigerians fleeing the Russia-Ukraine war. In 2023, the airline once again partnered with the Federal Government to rescue Nigerians caught in the Sudan crisis. Most recently, in 2025, Air Peace facilitated the evacuation of trafficked Nigerian girls from Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, returning them safely to their homeland.
Overall, the response reflects Nigeria’s broader commitment to citizen welfare and dignity. Xenophobic attacks have repeatedly raised concerns about migrant safety in the region. However, authorities insist that sustained diplomacy and rapid response mechanisms will reduce risks. Ultimately, the evacuation signals a strong message of protection and accountability in the face of xenophobic attacks.
